Dennis J. Illich

DENNIS ILLICH -- THE LEGACY OF A GREAT MAN Dennis John Illich was a man who touched the lives of many as a son, brother, husband, father, educator, farmer, and friend. He was a strong, intelligent, committed human being, one whose personal integrity and dedication and whose caring and warm smile set a standard for others to follow. He leaves behind a world that is better because of his life and legacy. Dennis died at his home on November 8, 2005, after a valiant struggle against first a nerve injury and then ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease. Although the disease robbed him of his strength and ability to speak, he never lost the ability to communicate, often writing long notes to share his thoughts and ideas. And he never lost his beautiful smile. Dennis was born in Biloxi, Mississippi, on February 17 1948, to Florence and John B. Illich. While in Biloxi he attended Holy Angels Kindergarten and Howard II Elementary School. As a young man his family moved to Ocean Springs where he attended Ocean Springs schools and he graduated in 1966. He furthered his education at Jackson County Junior College and the University of Southern Mississippi where he received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees. Dennis met the love of his life, the former Judy Keith, in August of 1965 and, after dating for four years, they were married on July 12, 1969. As true soul mates, their love for and dedication to each other served as an example to many. In 1973 Dennis became a father when his first son, Danny, was born, and the family was completed in 1977 with the birth of his second son, David. Watching his boys grow, teaching them, loving them, and being an active part of their daily lives was his passion. Dennis’ legacy as a father and husband is seen in his sons who have become self-sufficient, caring young men. Another love of his life was Dennis’ love for farming. Being in the field on his tractor, planting a garden, harvesting soybeans, cultivating top-quality hay, and protecting the wildlife and the natural habitat were his joys. Producing the best hay possible and teaching others how to do the same gave him great satisfaction. Many special friends were made during the years through his hay business. Dennis was a true steward of the land and his legacy was to leave his land better than it was and to never harm nature. During his 29 year career as an educator in the Ocean Springs School System, Dennis was exceptionally successful. He started his career teaching Industrial Arts at Ocean Springs Junior High School and then implemented the Cooperative Education program at Ocean Springs High School. He designed the plan for the district’s vocational education center and led in the establishment of Elizabeth Keys Vocational Education Center where he served for 22 years. During his career he was noted for his passion for vocational education and his leadership in the transition to technical programs. He is also remembered for his caring and true interest in each student. He served on numerous local, regional, and state education committees where he led in the development of vocational education as a vital part of the total curriculum and spearheaded the movement into technical education. Dennis was recognized for his many contributions to education by being selected as Administrator of the Year for Ocean Springs School District in 1998. He was then selected as Administrator of the Year for the 5th Congressional district and, in 1999, received the honor of being selected as State Administrator of the Year by the Mississippi Department of Education. His legacy as an educator can be seen in the lives of the many students he influenced and at Keys Technology Center. As a member of the Catholic faith, Dennis had attended during his lifetime St. Michael’s, St. Alphonsus, Christ the King, and St. Elizabeth Seton churches. He was a man of great spiritual depth and integrity who always placed his trust in God. He lived his life as Paul said in I Timothy to “Be rich in good deeds and share.” Dennis was a good man who will be remembered by many for his good deeds and acts of kindness. Dennis is survived by his wife, Judy, and his sons Danny and David. He is also survived by his parents Florence and John B. Illich of Ocean Springs. Other survivors include his four sisters and their families: Cynthia Zona of Ocean Springs and her sons Mark and Kevin; Alysse Kaapke of Houston, Texas and her husband David and daughters Kimberly and Jackie; Lyle Hayes of Jackson and her husband Burney, her sons Mike and Sean and her daughter Misty; and Stephanie Sewell of Noonan, Georgia and her husband Jim, her sons Jamie and Chris, and her daughter Brandi. Additionally, he is survived by his devoted mother-in-law, Mrs. Boyd Keith, with whom he had a close and loving relationship; a special sister-in-law, Margaret Andresen, and her husband, Paul, who lovingly assisted in caring for Dennis each day. Margaret and Andy, you loved Dennis like a brother and we thank you for your love and devotion and for always being there. He is also survived by a brother-in-law, Charles Keith, and his wife Cheryl and their two sons, Robert and Kenneth. As a member of these families, Dennis was a leader and a helper, always being willing to do for others. The legacy he leaves to his family is that of great love, helpfulness, and loyalty. To honor his legacy as an educator and a seeker of innovative educational programs for students, contributions to the Ocean Springs Education Foundation [P.O. Box 7002, Ocean Springs, MS 39566] in his memory would be appreciated. Visitation will be held from 5:00 until 8:00 P.M. Friday, November 11, 2005, at the Ocean Springs Chapel of Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home. The body will lie in state from 10:00 until 11:00 A.M. Saturday, November 12, 2005 at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church on Reilly Road in Ocean Springs, Mississippi where visitors may call. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 A.M. with Father Bernie Farrell officiating. Pall bearers will include Shelly Lokitz, Chuck Bordis, Joshua Hayden, Joel Myers, Josh Lloyd, and Roger Bardwell. Burial will follow at Byrd Cemetery in the Bonnie Chapel Community. The family would like to gratefully acknowledge the loving care and devotion provided by Quality Hospice during the last two months of Dennis’ life. Through the efforts of this entire team, Dennis was treated with the most loving care, given the greatest comfort possible, and allowed to die with dignity. Our everlasting appreciation goes to each member of the team, especially Cecilia Westbrook, his nurse, Anita Poole, his nurse’s aide, and Nancy Barnett, his counselor. The staff of Quality Hospice became our adopted family and their love for Dennis was evident. We would also like to acknowledge the spiritual guidance and comfort provided by Father Farrell whose prayers and devotion gave us strength and courage. We love each of you for the love you have shown to the entire Illich family. Special thanks also are given to Nancy and Shelly Lokitz and Margaret Brenke for your loving care and comfort throughout this journey. We cherish your love and friendship. Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, Ocean Springs, is in charge of arrangements.